PCH spokeswoman: Drownings among Hispanics cause for concern
Jun 8, 2015, 6:20 AM | Updated: 6:20 am
PHOENIX — Current trends according to the Center for Disease Control show Hispanics drowning rates increase between the ages of 15 to 19 years.
“One of the groups appearing more in drownings is Hispanic children and teenagers,” said Tiffaney Isaacson with Phoenix Children’s Hospital. “We need to apply resources that we have in the state of Arizona to understand the problem better.”
National water safety statistics show Hispanics and African Americans account for more than three times as many drowning incidents.
Isaacson said that with more Hispanics living in Arizona, it could explain the higher drowning rates.
The CDC found families living in low socio economic settings may be at an increased risk for drowning incidents, especially with families struggling for resources like swimming lessons.
“It’s more difficult to protect children,” said Isaacson.
Phoenix Children’s Hospital has partnered with Valley Toyota Dealers to bring free resources to families who need water safety information. Get the free water safety kits by visiting Phoenix Children’s Hospital website.
“It’s important we all continue to work together, (here in Maricopa County),” Isaacson said.
